Not only are paper documents wasteful and outdated, but they're also less efficient when it comes to locating information, organization, and storage as compared to their digital counterparts. Recently on The Modern Healthcare Back Office, we discussed why and how HME/DME companies are digitizing processes that have traditionally taken place on paper.
Paper has become the nemesis of optimized workflow, workflow management, accountability, and measurability in the healthcare industry. However, there are several strategies available that providers can implement to reduce the amount of paper inside their facilities:
Bolt-ons are different types of software that can be easily attached to already existing operating systems that provide supplementary functionality. Integrating bolt-on software into your current operating system is typically a quick and painless implementation process.
Automation can be utilized to eliminate certain clerical errors which, in turn, increases efficiency. When filling out various forms, automation will prevent employees from moving forward if they accidentally leave a question blank. In the past, that error would have gone unnoticed until the document or packet made it to the next step of the processing procedure.
Screen scraping is the act of copying screen display data from a scanned document or application so it can be used at a later date.
Lockboxes have evolved from their original service to include managing electronic files. Today’s medical lockboxes help payers and providers enhance the revenue management cycle process by improving organization, increasing processing efficiency, and reducing the time it takes to process an order. Not only do lockboxes eliminate paper, but they also help process payments faster, which gets you paid sooner.
Electronic referrals or e-referrals eliminate paper, reduce wait times, and improve efficiency by sharing documents digitally. Electronic referrals help streamline the referral process for physicians, pharmacies, and medical service providers.
Electronic faxing is the process of sending and receiving documents electronically through the internet instead of a phone line. Unlike email, electronic faxing offers a more secure document-sharing medium, leaving you less vulnerable to data breaches and hackers.
Humans are hardwired to resist change, which makes it easier to dismiss the importance of moving away from paper. Paperless operation unquestionably increases efficiency, reduces errors, and makes information easier to store and locate. Eliminating paper also reduces costs by eliminating paper, ink, and disposal expenses. Find out about more digital strategies by listening to the full episode below.
Prochant has a proven track record of helping HME and pharmacy providers meet their financial goals. Our scalable solutions, years of experience, and advanced technology provide best-in-class results to the healthcare community. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, our client base includes national pharmacy and HME providers and health systems.